School Transition Resources for Parents
We recognize that students and families may feel a range of emotions when they learn they will attend a new school, the McKinney ISD Counseling Services Department will continue to work with all students, families, and schools as they prepare for the future.
Talking to Your Child About Change
Have compassion and truly listen -
Ask your child what they think about changing schools, and what are they most worried about. Listen without interrupting and validate how they are feeling. If they struggle to explain their feelings, help them label the feeling(s) as "sad", "excited", "scared" or another feeling that fits. Explain that you will be there to support them with this change as well as all of the staff at their new school will be there to support them.
Speak about the positives of the change -
Make a list with your child about the positive aspects of attending a new school. Keeping a focus on the positive will help outweigh the negatives of the change. Post this list where you and your child can see them and add or review them as needed. This can support your child in adjusting and feeling less anxious.
Speak with your child about how to cope with the changes -
Children model feelings and coping strategies from their family. Help model coping strategies and practice them.
Help them problem solve -
Ask "Who will you go to at school if you are worried about something or someone?" Tell them it is okay to ask for help. Make a list of the adults (ie. counselor, teacher, principal) that they can go to at their new campus.
